In the year 880, a group of shepherd children saw a light descend from the heavens in the mountains of Montserrat and children’s heart were filled with joy. For a month the visitations continued and were traced to a mountain cave. When local priests explored the spot, they found an image of the Virgin Mary. Later, in the eleventh century Aboot Oliba founded a small monastery on the site, and today eighty Benedictine monks still welcome pilgrims to their rocky mountain home. Photo by: Sandro Mancuso

A pilgrim is any person who knocks on the door with the intention of spiritual quest, and the Montserrat monks share their prayers and meals with guests. Visitors can tour the museum and the building was designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, who created many of Barcelona’s landmark structures. The museum of Montserrat houses more than 1, 300 pieces, from an Egyptian sarcophagus to a twenty-first century sculpture. Photo by: mkpena

The massif at Montserrat is protected as a nature reserve and includes walks, featuring the hike to the peak of Mount Sant Jeroni, which offers spectacular views over the rugged landscape. Many people come to Montserrat on day trips from Barcelona, but those who wish to stay longer can book into the Hotel Abat Cisneros or the Abat Marcet Apartments nearby. The monastery sits in the shadow of Mount Monserrat, in Catalonia, Spain. Photo by: retrorocketrick

Photo by: retrorocketrick